The narrator reflects on the act of suicide, contrasting the brutal Roman practice of impaling oneself on a sword with what they perceive as a more refined method, poison. This contemplation reveals a disdain for the hasty manner in which Romans often chose to end their lives in response to adversity or disappointment. Their readiness to resort to such extreme measures prompts a questioning of their values.

This observation suggests a critique of Roman society, highlighting its tendency towards self-destructive behaviors rather than facing challenges resiliently. The narrator’s preference for a more civilized approach emphasizes a deeper consideration of life and death choices, serving as a commentary on the nature of despair and the choices one has in dire circumstances.